#Socio-Economic Hardship

[dikoderbeatz]

The Mental Health Crisis Fueled by Corrupt Governance: A Call for Change

Bismark Kwabla Kpobi, Executive Director of ASK Health Advocacy Foundation, has raised serious concerns about the detrimental impact of government corruption on the mental health of citizens. Despite being endowed with abundant natural resources such as gold, bauxite, timber, crude oil, and cocoa, the populace continues to suffer due to the self-serving and corrupt practices of government…

[therealbeingpeople]

Boy is this going to be interesting…

Key takeaways:

Part of working with Trump and his administration is managing his ego and the political jabs, but ultimately we have work to do and a responsibility to Californians” - Alex Padilla, Senior State Senator

Sort of an interesting take, considering he is a Chicano American from Los Angeles who is a notable warlord to his native population

“The approach is “open hand, not a closed fist,” the Newsom adviser said. “Ultimately, he’s got to work with the administration, so he’s got to chart a path through a very, very difficult terrain. What he’s really got to be seen doing is protecting California and defending people whose homes burned down.””

I am just going to observe that relationship over the next two-three years, because it is an interesting situation in which a man that enriched himself on the vices of others and eventually take control over the State is positioning the whole of the State’s legislative approach as a bulwark against the political platform of a President that enriched himself through the provision of housing for those of relative wealth and subsequent branding mastery who subsequently took control over the whole of the country’s federal government while I, one of the country’s- and that particular state’s- educated poor sits in Italy, having requested political asylum at the end of a family vacation after years worth of economic, socio-cultural, and political chicanery, open-indifference to criming, and the social engineering of inversions of the criminal-victim crime-non-crime resulted in… almost comedically buffoonish hardship, harassment, and bonafide criminal conspiracy in bipartisan, military, and civilian segments of the population

Should be a pretty good show

[fearfulfertility]

CONFIDENTIAL MEMORANDUM

DRC, Public Affairs Division, Civilian Services Command

To: Director [REDACTED]

From: Regional Oversight Coordinator [REDACTED], Paternity Compound 132

Date: [REDACTED]

Subject: Community Re-Education Efforts in Rural Tennessee

Location: Church of the Immaculate Conception, [REDACTED], Tennessee

Objective Statement

This transcript, sourced from Reverend [REDACTED]’s recent sermon at the Church of the Immaculate Conception in [REDACTED], Tennessee, highlights our ongoing efforts to align religious communities with national surrogacy objectives. Given this region's exceedingly low socio-economic and educational prospects, messaging must be tailored to emphasize divine purpose and moral duty, ensuring surrogacy compliance through faith-based narratives.

The Reverend’s inclusion of visibly pregnant surrogates and theological framing of their sacrifice was effective in capturing attention. However, his unscripted interaction with Surrogate S142-317-K revealed the risks of granting surrogates a platform to express personal dissent, even in a controlled environment. Future engagements must avoid such pitfalls to maintain community trust and focus.

Action Items

Develop stricter scripting guidelines for public appearances involving surrogates.

Evaluate congregation reactions and adjust messaging to address residual discomfort.

Monitor flagged individuals for dissent and determine appropriate countermeasures.

Community Description

Nestled in a rural expanse of [REDACTED], Tennessee, this community reflects the hallmarks of low socioeconomic status and deeply ingrained religious traditions. Most residents are employed in small-scale agriculture, local manufacturing, or service-sector jobs, with limited post-secondary education and social mobility. The population skews towards large families due to cultural and religious norms. Religious affiliation is nearly universal, with the church serving as a central hub for social interaction, moral guidance, and community decision-making. Despite economic hardship, the community demonstrates resilience and a firm adherence to conservative, faith-based values.

Transcript Submission

Congregation Description

The congregation at the Church of the Immaculate Conception consists predominantly of working-class families, retirees, and local farmers.

Opening Hymn: “Great is Thy Faithfulness”

Reverend [REDACTED]

"Brothers in faith, we gather here today in the spirit of sacrifice, in the spirit of service, and in the spirit of salvation. For the Lord Himself said, ‘Be fruitful and multiply, and replenish the earth.’ And so we find ourselves in a time of testing, a time when the Lord calls upon us to serve not just with our hearts, but with our very bodies."

"Today, I am blessed to share this sacred space with two of our surrogates, young men chosen by God for a divine mission. These brave souls are bearing the weight—quite literally—of our nation’s future. Let us welcome them as they sit among us, shining examples of what it means to live according to His will."

Congregation turns to see two surrogates seated at the front of the sanctuary. Both are visibly near full-term.

Surrogate S142-317-K

18 years old, former high school athlete from the immediate community, pregnant with hendecuplets (11). Surrogate was selected for his quiet and submissive demeanor. 

Surrogate S142-225-L

20 years old, family members from an associated rural farming community and is currently pregnant with dodecuplets (12). Surrogate was selected for his stoic and resigned demeanor. Condition is very advanced, and movements are limited to assisted mobility only. 

Reverend [REDACTED]

"Now, some of you have questioned the changes in our congregation, the ways in which we have been asked to adapt, to welcome this previously unfathomable mission. But let me remind you: God works in mysterious ways. His plan is not always clear to us, but it is always righteous. Today, we are called to embrace a new chapter in our walk with Him—a chapter of extraordinary giving."

Congregation murmurs softly. 

S142-225-L, struggling with his bulk, shifts uncomfortably in his chair.

Reverend [REDACTED]

"For as the Good Book says in John 15:13, ‘Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.’ And what greater love can there be than these surrogates, who are laying down their strength, their comfort, and yes, even their very lives, to bring forth the next generation? These young men are not merely surrogates—they are chosen vessels of divine purpose."

A few hesitant amens from the congregation. 

S142-317-K wipes away a tear, while S142-225-L stares blankly ahead.

Reverend [REDACTED]

"I know some of you are struggling with this new reality. Perhaps you have seen your sons, your brothers, or even your neighbors brought into this new calling. Perhaps you have wrestled with anger, confusion, or despair. But I tell you, do not grieve! Do not resist! For as Paul reminds us in Romans 12:1, ‘Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.’ These sacrifices are not in vain—they are the foundation upon which our future is built."

"Let me share a story. Last week, I visited the gestational ward at Paternity Compound 132. I met one of the young men seated here with us today. He told me, ‘Pastor, I don’t know why God chose me for this, but I trust Him. I trust that He has a plan.’ That, my friends, is faith. That is courage. That is the spirit of true service."

Note: No interaction beyond observations through the sound-proofed glass was allowed when Reverend [REDACTED] visited Paternity Compound 132. The surrogate in question he references appears to be fabricated for the purpose of the sermon.

Reverend [REDACTED]

"These young men are heroes. And heroes don’t always look the way we expect them to. They don’t wear capes. Sometimes, they wear hospital gowns. Sometimes, they lay in beds, swollen with life, praying that their sacrifice will make a difference. That their pain will pave the way for a brighter tomorrow."

The congregation grows quiet, many appearing uneasy. 

S142-317-K exhales deeply, his hands resting on the vast curve of his abdomen. S142-225-L does not display any emotive response.

Reverend [REDACTED]:

"We, too, must do our part. We must support them. Pray for them. Celebrate their courage and remind ourselves that this is God’s will made manifest. If you are called to give a son, give him with faith. If you are called to serve as a surrogate, serve with pride. And if you are called to bear witness, do so with humility and gratitude."

Reverend [REDACTED] continues to proselytize for another 23.7 minutes. The congregation appears to be losing focus, but attention is regained when the Reverend begins "interviewing" surrogate S142-317-K.

Reverend [REDACTED]

"Good afternoon, son. What an honor it is to have you here with us today. The congregation is inspired by your courage and sacrifice. Now, tell me—how does it feel to be chosen for such a divine purpose?"

Surrogate S142-317-K

"Pastor, I—"

Reverend [REDACTED]

"Ah, I can imagine it’s overwhelming at first! To know you’ve been selected to carry not just life, but hope, for an entire nation. That’s a weight most young men will never understand. Truly, the Lord works through you miraculously, doesn’t He?"

Surrogate S142-317-K

"I mean, I guess, but—"

Reverend [REDACTED]

"That’s right, that’s right. And think of the joy you’re bringing to so many families who have prayed for children but could not have them. Every kick you feel, every movement within you, is a testament to God’s plan. Don’t you agree?"

Surrogate S142-317-K

"I don’t know if I’d call it joy, Pastor. It’s actually—"

Reverend [REDACTED]

"Oh, I understand! It’s humbling, isn’t it? To feel the enormity of your task. But let me remind you, son, humility is a virtue. Philippians 2:3 says, ‘Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.’ That’s exactly what you’re doing!"

Surrogate S142-317-K

"But it’s not what I—"

Reverend [REDACTED]

"You see, the Lord guides us even when we don’t understand His methods. I’m sure, at first, you might have had doubts or fears—that’s only natural. But look at you now! A shining example of faith and resilience. How proud your parents must be to see you serving this way!"

Surrogate S142-317-K

"My parents didn’t give me a choice! They signed me up—"

Reverend [REDACTED]

"Ah, yes, choice. Sometimes, the greatest choices are made for us, aren’t they? Just as Abraham was called to sacrifice Isaac, not every calling is one we’d choose for ourselves. But, son, you’ve risen to the occasion. Surely, you can see the greater purpose in all this?"

Surrogate S142-317-K

"Pastor, with all due respect, I’m in constant pain. I can barely—"

Surrogate S142-225-L begins to display visible physical discomfort. 

Reverend [REDACTED]

"Pain! Yes, yes, the pain of sacrifice. The pain of labor. The pain of the cross. None of us can achieve greatness without hardship, my boy. Jesus Himself bore the weight of the world’s sins—just as you bear the weight of these precious lives. What a beautiful parallel, don’t you think?"

Surrogate S142-317-K

"I just want this to end. I can’t—"

S142-225-L groaned audibly, his hands clutching his abdomen as multiple fetuses shifted within. The pronounced movement of his belly draws gasps and murmurs from the congregation. 

Several attendees appeared visibly distressed, with one man crossing himself repeatedly. 

Reverend [REDACTED] momentarily paused, offering a solemn nod in acknowledgment before continuing his dialogue with S142-317-K. 

The incident visibly heightened the unease in the room.

Reverend [REDACTED]

"In God’s time, all things come to their conclusion. For now, focus on the gift you are giving. Focus on the good you are doing for countless others. And remember, ‘Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial.’ That’s James 1:12, by the way."

Surrogate S142-317-K

(quietly) "What the actual fuck?"

Closing Hymn: “Onward, Christian Soldiers”

Reverend [REDACTED]

"Heavenly Father, we thank You for the blessings You have bestowed upon us, for the surrogates who carry the burden of life, and for the wisdom of those who guide this blessing. We ask that You give strength to those who serve, comfort to those who grieve, and faith to those who doubt. In Your holy name, we pray. Amen."

"You, my boy, are an instrument of His will. And there is no higher calling than that."

Post-Sermon Observations

Surrogate S142-317-K appeared visibly distressed and unresponsive for the remainder of the service. 

S142-225-L returns to staring blankly ahead, though now massaging his belly.

Reverend [REDACTED] has been instructed to avoid conducting unscripted conversations with surrogates in future appearances.

Addendum (Confidential)

Following the service, S142-317-K fainted while being escorted out, likely due to the extreme strain of late-term pregnancy. Medical staff intervened promptly, though the surrogate later went into labor, birthed, and expired in the compound the following morning.

S142-225-L also continued gestating for 5 days (34 days total) before entering labor, birthing, and expiring.

No overt objections were publicly declared. 

Reverend [REDACTED] has been instructed to continue incorporating surrogates into his sermons to normalize their role within the community.

Click Here to return to DRC Report Archives

DRC agents noted mixed reactions among the congregation, ranging from quiet acceptance to visible discomfort. Several individuals were overheard expressing objections to the surrogates and their presence. Operatives have flagged them for further observation and, if necessary, detainment. 

----------------

[whencyclopedia]

Childbirth in Ancient Rome

Childbirth in ancient Rome was considered the main purpose of marriage. Roman girls married in their early teens, and in elite society, some married before they reached puberty. The legal age for marriage was 12 for a girl; 15 was accepted as being an age fit for conception.

The ability to produce a family was also an explicit political concern in Roman society. Emperor Augustus (r. 27 BCE to 14CE) was particularly troubled by the declining birth rate, especially amongst the upper classes, when he promoted legislation, the Julian Laws in 18 BCE and the Papia-Poppaean Laws in 9 CE, which included measures to promote marriage and reward freeborn women who had more than three children.

Risks & Mortality

There were many risks involved during pregnancy both for mother and child; Pliny the Younger (61 to c. 113 CE) in his Epistulae highlights those risks when he writes of his own young wife, who did not realise that she was pregnant and failed to take certain precautions resulting in her suffering a miscarriage and being gravely ill (8.10). He also writes of the tragedy of two young sisters whom he knew, who both died giving birth (Epist. 4.21.1-3). For any pregnant young girl in labour, physical immaturity could have an adverse effect on the possibility of a normal birth; the remains of a 16-year-old pregnant female discovered in Herculaneum, buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, indicates that this girl may have died anyway struggling to give birth because her immature pelvis was too narrow.

The rates of child mortality at birth or in the first five years of life were high with one in three children dying in their first year, many within the first few weeks. Fronto (95-166 CE), the tutor of Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius (r. 161-180 CE), tells of his own personal experience of having lost five children, losing each one separately, each one being born at a time when he bereaved another (1.2 Fronto, To Antoninus Augustus ii. 1-2). To counteract mortality rates, fertility rates needed to be high, a woman in antiquity on average gave birth five or six times as some of those children would not survive. Certainly, the cases of maternal and infant mortality would have varied with the socio-economic classes in Roman society; families in the lower classes had to cope with hardship and poverty, and for the newborn, the risks of infant mortality were compounded by poor diet, poor sanitation, and poor medical knowledge.

Continue reading...

[suntears1037]

Re: Watcher's Stupid Ass Decision

As I have been watching the Watcher disaster unfold on both YouTube and on Tik-Tok. I have yet to see anyone bring forth this one fact.

The U.S. federal minimum wage is ONLY $7.25!

When your subscription service only leaves a person with $1.25 cents to their name is it really that affordable?

That is dismissing the REAL issue that 78% of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck as well. (Not to say that only Americans make up their audience by any means but they make up a large sum of viewers)

So taking Steven Lim's dumbass statement that "Anyone and every body is able to afford it!" is tone deaf at best and horrifically inconsiderate and offensive at worst; given our worlds socio-economic structure, and the pain and hardships that so many working class people are battling currently.

When now, you only view the people who have given you your empire and luxury as a stepping stone and a tool to step on "One last time." as a means to climb the capitalistic ladder you tried to stray away from.

It truly makes me wonder if anyone on the Watcher team took time and consideration to understand their target audience at ALL.

[eternal-echoes]

“The university as a place of discernment. It is important to interpret reality by looking it in the face. Ideological or partial interpretations are useless; they only feed illusion and disillusionment. It is important to interpret reality, but also to live this reality without fear, without fleeing, without catastrophism. Every crisis, even the present one, is a passage, the pangs of a birth that involves struggle, hardship and suffering, but which bears within itself the new horizon of life, of a renewal, that carries the power of hope. And this is not a crisis of “change”: it is a crisis of “the change of an era”. It is an era that changes. These are not superficial changes of an era. A crisis can become a time of purification and and a time to rethink our socio-economic models and of a certain understanding of progress that fed illusions, in order to recover what is most fully human. Discernment is neither blind nor improvised: it is carried out on the basis of ethical and spiritual criteria; it involves asking oneself about what is good, it entails thinking about our own values regarding man and the world, a vision of the person in all his dimensions, especially the spiritual and transcendent; the person may never be considered “human material”! This, perhaps, is the suggestion lurking in functionalism. The University, as a place of “knowledge” has a very important role to play in forming students in discernment in order to nourish hope. When the unknown traveller, the Risen Jesus, approaches the two sad and disconsolate disciples of Emmaus, he does not try to hide the reality of the Crucifixion, of the apparent defeat that threw them into crisis. On the contrary, he invites them to interpret reality so as to to guide them to the light of His Resurrection: “O foolish men and slow of heart … Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?” (Lk 24:25-26). To discern does not mean to escape, but rather to seriously interpret reality without prejudice.”

-Pope Francis, MEETING WITH THE ACADEMIC AND CULTURAL WORLD, Lecture Hall of the Pontifical Theological Faculty of Sardinia, Cagliari Sunday, 22 September 2013

[operafloozy]

November is Mizrahi Heritage Month, so this seems like a good time to remind people that Mizrahi Jews exist, both within and outside of Israel.

I'm not an expert, so I'm just going to link to a Jewish Voice for Peace (an Anti-Zionist Jewish group) Fact Sheet. Because it's a PDF and this is tumblr, I'll post some major points here.

Supporters of Israel dislike talking about MENA Jews because of racism within Israel and Israel portrays itself as European to soften their image with Americans and Europeans. Israel's detractors dislike talking about them because their existence muddies the White Euro Colonizer portrayal of Israelis. (OP commentary, not from the fact sheet)

Of 7 million Israelis, 35-40% are Mizrahim, 15% are Russian immigrants, 20% are Palestinian Israelis, 2.2% are Ethiopian, and 25-30% are Ashkenazi Jews and others. This means 55-60% of the Israeli population is ‘non-white’; together, Mizrahim and Palestinian Israelis form a majority.

Middle Eastern Jews immigrated to Israel for a variety of reasons related to each particular country’s economic, political, religious and national policies, messianic hopes and Israeli policies. Where one immigrated depended on socio- economic status and religiosity. Wealthier North African Jews ended up in Europe and America, as a rule.

Many MENA Jews can be considered refugees, immigrating due to persecution, pogroms, and economic hardship, though few of them refer to themselves as such.

On arrival [to Israel], some underwent humiliating experiences such as being sprayed with DDT. The Ringworm Children documentary highlights the tens of thousands of mostly North African children received high doses of radiation for ringworm, resulting in deaths and long-term effects including seizures, infertility, and cancers.

Despite being the majority Jewish population in Israel, Mizrahim are represented in small numbers in the Israeli Parliament and in elite positions such as professorships. Many still live in poor ‘development towns,’ agricultural Moshavim, or urban peripheries such as South Tel Aviv that receive fewer municipal funds than more central and majority-Ashkenazi Jewish cities, towns, and Kibbutzim

This information should not be used for:

This is not an excuse for genocide. What is happening in Gaza is 100% more important. I'm just sharing this with the hope that it enhances the way some of you talk about Israel.

This is not a case of 'good' brown Jews and 'bad' European Jews. There are plenty of MENA Jews within and outside of Israel that are Zionist. There are plenty of Ashkenazi Jews within and outside of Israel that are anti-Zionist. In both cases we're talking about large swathes of people who have disparate experiences, both within and outside of Western racial framework.

This should not be taken as support of the Israeli government. People continue to not be their governments.

[buecherbummlerin]

A Spell of Good Things

Author:

Ayobami Adebayo

Pubslisher:

Canongate Books

Content (Blurb):

Eniola is tall for his age, a boy who looks like a man. His father has lost his job, so Eniola spends his days running errands for the local tailor, collecting newspapers and begging, dreaming of a big future. Wuraola is a golden girl, the perfect child of a wealthy family. Now an exhausted young doctor in her first year of practice, she is beloved by Kunle, the volatile son of family friends. When a local politician takes an interest in Eniola and sudden violence shatters a family party, Wuraola and Eniola's lives become intertwined. In this breathtaking novel, Ayòbámi Adébáyò shines her light on Nigeria, on the gaping divide between the haves and the have-nots, and the shared humanity that lives in between.

My Review:

I just love Ayobami Adebayos style of writhing and the way she describes her characters and the hardships they have to face. This is the second book I read by Ayobami Adebayo and I was blown away by this unique story.

“She had never been able to shake the sense that life was war, a series of battles with the occasional spell of good things.”

What makes Adebayos books so unique and captivating to me is that her books take place in Nigeria and offer an important insight in the countries culture, people, families, politics and conflicts. This book discusses important topics such as socio-economic inequality, politicization, regulation of the school system, political corruption, depression and domestic abuse. With that Adebayo tackles current and real conflicts. She writes stories about characters that are authentic and have to fight for their place within all these important conflicts while also battling conflicts within themselves too.  With tackling those issues this book is not a happy novel. But I really like that about Adebayos style of writing because her books show us difficult issues without sugar coting them. This book gives us a sense if hopelessness in a world where Eniola and Wurola fight for their place and face cruel  realities.

“Time was unforgiving, it didn’t stop, not even to give people a chance to scrape themselves off the floor if they’d been shattered.”

I also loved how Adebayo describes Eniola und Wurolas life’s and families with great detail. Most of the stories develops slow and as reader we accompany Eniola und Wurola in their daily lives and struggles first. Especially in the end all of it builds together in a bigger picture where their fates get intertwined and shocking truths are revealed. I have really liked that Adebayo took time to develop the story and that this is not completely action packed. This made the book a lot more authentic to me. Especially the ending blew me away and stays in mind.

Resume:

Ayobami Adebayo’s A Spell of Good Things is a unique story set in Nigeria. It discusses important topics such as socio-economic inequality, depression, corruption and domestic abuse. This books describes real characters that have to face cruel hardships. I loved that this book discusses these issues without sugar coting them. This stories shows the cruel, hard and shocking reality. An absolute recommendation!

[asanee44]

4 REASONS AFRICAN SPIRITUALITY IS GROWING IN POPULARITY

African spirituality has experienced a major resurgence throughout the African diaspora in recent years. While it is still considered taboo to some, African spirituality is growing in popularity among others, particularly among millennials. In fact, there appears to be a growing trend of people from all walks of life returning to their traditional spiritual practices.

Millennials and younger generations are much less apprehensive about embracing the spirituality of their forefathers. This is in sharp contrast to previous generations who empathically shunned African spiritual systems and their derivatives. These systems were misconstrued as forms of witchcraft or black magic primarily because of the influence of European thought. But now, more people throughout the African diaspora are starting to leave mainstream religious systems in favor of African spirituality.

I think that this shift is occurring as part of a global socio-spiritual awakening. Many refer to this phenomenon as the Age of Aquarius. Regardless of the title, there are definitely events that have been occurring globally that indicate a shift in our collective consciousness.

WHY AFRICAN SPIRITUALITY IS GROWING

In order for these changes to occur, there had to be some form of catalyst or uprising. In the case of increased interest, conversion, and reversion to African spirituality, many factors have spawned this shift. According to my research and experiences, these dynamics include discontentment, the need for healing, decolonization, and social trends.

DISCONTENTMENT

Like many others, people throughout the African diaspora have become disillusioned with the unfilled promises of Christianity and other religions. In their longing to witness the return of a savior, people are starting to become anxious, impatient, and discontent. Many people have simply lost hope in the possibility of this occurring in their lifetime or at all.

Above and beyond waiting for a rapture, people want to see a change in their day-to-day lives. African diaspora youths have watched their parents and grandparents suffer from the strongholds of slavery and its aftermath. They have seen their parents and grandparents struggle to survive while clinging to a savior god who doesn’t appear to be concerned about their hardships. Nor does this savior god seem to care about the global struggles of the African diaspora.

Many of them have become despondent with the status quo. They want to see change, and few believe that a long-awaited savior will initiate it. So, they are searching for answers, and many are finding the answers they seek in traditional African spiritual systems. A number of people who return to their traditions are beginning to experience peace and gain power, which is one reason for the increased growth of African spirituality.

HEALING

Many people throughout the African diaspora are suffering from insurmountable maladies. They have physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, social, and financial issues that modern-day healing modalities can’t seem to address properly. African and African diaspora spiritual systems like Hoodoo, Haitian Vodou, Ifa, and others have historically been known to be beneficial in treating such maladies.

This is why many people are turning to African spirituality as an effective alternative to western religious, healthcare, and economic systems, etc. Individuals throughout the African diaspora are beginning to wake up to the mystical wisdom that their fore-parents possessed. Even other groups of people are seeking help from African spiritual systems for the same reason.

They realize that western modalities are not curative. Instead, they simply cover up symptoms to underlying problems. Conversely, African spirituality has provided effective, permanent solutions to many of the ills faced by people throughout the diaspora. And in turn, it has helped improve their overall well-being.

Africa Bag / Backpack – Bone Leather (Medium)

DECOLONIZATION

This socio-spiritual awakening traverses all aspects of society as people seek ways to decolonize European thought patterns. The black conscious community began to realize this shift in the early 2000s with the second wave of the natural hair movement. This led to many women and men embracing natural hairstyles such as afros, dreadlocks, twists, etc. These hairstyles had been historically frowned upon in westernized societies because they embody the essence of black power and cultural pride.

As such movements continue, the black conscious community likewise continues to grow and gain in momentum. This group has started making tremendous waves in religious and spiritual decolonization as well. Many individuals from this group are waking people up to the reality of spiritual colonization. They expose the insidious role of religions like Christianity and Islam in the enslavement and colonization of black people worldwide.

Such individuals want nothing to do with what they consider to be the “slave master’s religion.” Many from these groups are turning to African spirituality as a means of honoring their ancestral heritage and decolonizing from religious superiority. A number of them have found comfort and solace in returning to their roots and culture for these very reasons.

SOCIAL TRENDS

As with all things in society, trends play an overwhelming role in societal shifts. In modern times, the journeys, lessons, and knowledge of those who have chosen to embrace African spirituality are being cataloged through social media. As more spiritually-curious individuals see this trend introduced through social media, more of them have started embracing African spirituality as well.

However, not everyone involved in this movement will wholeheartedly adopt African spirituality as a way of life. Many onlookers will only engage with African spiritual systems from the periphery.

A number of people may read a few articles or books about the topic, others may attend services in African spiritual circles, and some may even seek out divination services. However, overall everyone who engages with African spirituality will not be a lifelong adherent to such systems.

And that’s okay. Speaking as an African American devotee of two African spiritual systems, I know that African spirituality is not for everyone. I believe that people should be led by their intuition. This may mean fully embracing African spirituality for a moderate few, only observing it for some, or being totally repulsed by it for others. Either way, the journey for those who choose to embrace this path will continue.

If you are interested in learning more about African spirituality and why it is growing, check out these resources.

Learn more about African Spirituality in this episode of the African Spirit Reintegrated + Reimagined:

[womenfrommars]

Hey, Juno, how you're doing? If you don't mind, I'd like to know your opinion on a trans issue. I had my peak trans moment almost two weeks ago and I've been in contact with gender critical rhetoric ever since. Recently, I came across a reflection about how weirdly powerful the Trans movent is, changing laws (even the legal definition of sex), conquering spaces in politics, media and uni programs... Something other social movements, like feminism and the black movement never did (not like the trans movement at least). And I do agree in a way, but I can't help being skeptical about the strength of this idea when we witness trans folks being murdered, suffering because of lack of opportunities, being kicked away from home... In a way, I do believe the Trans movement is uncommonly powerful and that's sus, but at the same time I accept trans folks still face a lot of hardships because of their gender identity. Is it wrong to assume both things at the same time?

Hi anon, I don't think these ideas are necessarily inherently contradictory. The fact a political movement (in this case, the transgender movement) is gaining momentum doesn't necessarily translate into the idea that the average transsexual has a wonderful life. The transgender movement claims to advocate for transgenders but personally I find it doubtful to what degree they succeed in doing so. They mostly advocate for legal changes which are supposed to benefit the social and mental well-being of transgenders. Think making it easy to legally alter your gender, or make cross-sex hormones more financially affordable. But studies indicate the overall quality of life of transgenders is not tremendously improved post-ex reassignment surgery. Most notably the rate of suicidality is just as high as pre-surgery.

I find that the transgender movement can be very manipulative with statistics. It is claimed that only 3% of transgenders have regrets about their transition. This figure is based on a Dutch follow-up study that exclude roughly 30% of the initial patients from the follow-up. Either they refused to cooperate with the study or they couldn't be reached. So we have no idea what happened to this group. Lots of detransitioners feel resentful to the point they cut off all contact with their doctors so many are not included in follow-up trials. And it is sad to say but it is definitely a possibility some died of suicide

Another example is the homocide rate of transgenders. Most figures being thrown around are based on studies in South America that mostly follow transsexual prostitutes. Those people are not representative of Western, middle-class transgenders at all. Even when you take a look at the homocide rate for US-based transgenders, it is significantly higher than the US national average yes, but that actually disappears when you account for racial background. The vast majority of the victims are Afro-American and to a lesser degree Latino American. The homocide rate for white American transgenders is lower than the US national average (and also lower than that for white Americans specifically). It is hard to find statistics that account for other factors such as sexual orientation and socio-economic background. I think most of the hardships that some transgenders face can be best explained by them being homosexual and/or of being of an ethnic minority, usually combined with lower income. I bet you have heard various stories in the media about the suffering of transsexuals, and 9 out of 10 times, they showcase a homosexual transsexual rather than a heterosexual one, despite the fact that in clinics today, most male-to-female patients are heterosexual. The ones who are kicked out of their parental home, who end up in prostitution, get involved with drugs, etc etc are from what I can tell almost always MTF homosexual

I really implore you to look more into these matters as statistics can be very easily manipulated to fit a certain political narrative. That is not to say we should not also have compassion for those who do suffer and look for social and political solutions. But fast-tracking pre-pubescent children into a transition process is very unlikely to increase well-being for the transgender population, which is the usual answer coming from the transgender movement

[mallowmaenad]

thing ive been musing about thats too nuanced to actually discussed on here: the parallel of community headcanons of characters being transgender in one direction or another vs. the commonality of literary themes of masculinity and manhood as a curse, punishment or hardship vs. masculinity and manhood as a reward, blessing or accomplishment especially under the lense of a modern patriarchal society and the more specific filter of that kind of art as enjoyed by queer online countercultural groups especially fandoms. ultimately i think people dont put enough thought into this stuff so i will pivot my thought process to the socio-economic conditions of living in equestria and its desperate facimile of an inherently capitalist utopia and what that means for the lower class and disenfranchised in this fucking cartoon made for little girls

[teafiend]

Thoroughly enjoyed the shamanism/shamanistic, folkloric and supernatural horror base of the show. The mysteries were quite engaging as well. Performances were obviously top-notch, and storylines wonderfully coherent and solid too.

Skipped parts of the last three episodes but due to bits and pieces here, got most of the storyline still. Ended beautifully and hopeful.

A superb 8.0-8.2.

The themes the show touched on varies and fascinatingly relevant, and I thought weaved into the folkloric and shamanistic aspects well. Human greed, wickedness, the sociopathy of the rich/powerful, will-to-live/survive, family/generational trauma, economic hardship, a sprinkle of socio-economic issues in South Korea were threaded logically and with sensitivity.

That said, the emotions about those issues could be better provoked. This was a mostly cerebral show for me, and moved me more in the mind than heart. Still excellent though.

I think one could write reams of paper on the issues brought up here though, no least the sociological aspects of the folkloric and supernatural as it pertains to human activities and emotions. Am sure there are already studies/research about those, but the show weaved them together fascinatingly.

Could not help but feel for poor Lee Hyang-Gi and her younger sister - Mok Dan - too. They were innocents in this, and hard to fault the poor girl for doing what she did after everything she had to go through. All blame were on the older Yeoms (and the shaman; even to an extent, the parents and villagers) and their greed and wickedness (which is par for the course of the privileged, especially). And of course, girls are always - commonly - the first to be sacrificed 😡🤬😭😭😭

The more sobering fact is the show and its world is considered “reality” in certain parts of the world, and not merely fiction. The use of the supernatural to further one’s ambitions, unwholesome intentions etc are common for some people. Not that I personally think they work, just that some people certainly swear by its effectiveness.

All said though, nothing wins over “The Guest” for me personally. To be fair, while both shows share certain themes, they are quite different, and I have enjoyed both, though my heart will always remain with TG. I mean, I am still shipping the characters from TG even when I have to do it alone. The shipping potential for “Revenant” is definitely there as well, and I have read a few lovely fanfic for San Yeong/Hae Sang, so there is that. San Yeong and Hong Sae would be sweet too.

Glad I finally jumped in and completed the show. Well worth the time spent on it.

Mini-rant:

Me and SBS non-Romance dramas: 왜❓(Wae/Why?!)

What is it with SBS and the non-shippable vibes of some of its shows?

I started “Revenant” with a ship (already read a few fics) and came out the other end 😅🤔🫠 This is not the first time either. Non-Romances usually have some good chemistry too, yet 😬🫥

Solid writing, memorable performances and beautiful directing with a sleek feel etc, yet the chemistry stayed firmly platonic (for me). Why???

There must be something in the “sauce” of SBS dramas which blocks my shipping-vibes antennae. Just a roundly weird phenomenon 🫠😭😔😥

[coralpenguincherryblossom]

covid and mental health

By Rachel Shannon

Everyone can relate to the fact that covid was a stressful period in our human existence. Some people struggled more than others but no hardship should be weighed or compared to one another's. It was both a tribulation and a learning experience. Before covid, we lived in a very rushed Society. The work day was 9-5 Monday through Friday, we never thought to challenge it. Now post covid, some people don't work on Mondays or have half a day on Fridays, or some people work completely remote which never used to be an option. We now take more time for our emotional health and embrace therapy which for decades previously was considered taboo.  To get to this point, Society had to face some tough adversities which include mental health decline in Victoria Australia, harsh discriminatory challenges for Asian Americans, and radical transitions for college students. These three scenarios are just a few examples of some of the many ways in which covid impacted our mental health. These situations brought awareness to the way we view and treat mental health.

Since covid, intentional self-harm rates skyrocketed in Victoria Australia due to lack of employment opportunities and social isolation. While young people are less susceptible to covid, the pandemic did disproportionately affect their psychosocial development, as social connectedness and social identity are important factors in youth. Suicide attempt hospitalization rates ranged from 77.4 to 97.9 events per 100,000 population between 2012-2013 and 2019-2020. Rates were higher outside of urban areas. It is estimated that the self-harm hospitalization rates in Greater Melbourne was 75.9 per 100,000 population compared to 112.0 per 100,000 population in the rest of Victoria. The Victorian mental health system was extensively evaluated by the Royal Commission on the advice of the Victorian government. The Royal Commission found  that the state's mental health system was unable to respond to the needs of the people suffering from mental illness or psychological distress, unsuitable to meet current and future demands, and an urgent need for reform. 

“Pre-existing individual factors, such as poorer physical health, a history of chronic illness, or pre-existing mental health problems, have been associated with higher rates of anxiety and depression during COVID-19. Other individual factors may be important too, for example introverted individuals are somewhat less likely to have high quality social support systems compared to extraverts. Consistent evidence shows that adults experiencing pre-existing socio-economic disadvantages face increased mental health problems related to COVID-19.” (Westrupp,”et al.”2023)

While Westrupp explains that pre-existing conditions occurred in parents and children in Victoria before covid, these conditions were made worse from government restrictions and shutdowns.

Since covid, the Asian-American population have faced intense racial discrimination which include verbal harassment and physical assault. This is mainly due to media outlets blaming China for the pandemic.  A recent Pew Research Center report found that approximately 31% of Asian American adults reported being the subject of slurs or jokes because of their race or ethnicity, and about 58% of Asian American adults shared that it is more common for people to express racist or racially insensitive views about Asians than it was before the covid-19 outbreak. The increase in racial discrimination against Asian Americans during the covid-19 pandemic has also contributed to covid-19 discrimination fear, which exacerbated mental health problems such as depression and anxiety. 

“Anti-Asian racism has always been present in the US society for over 150 years, though it has been encoded in different vocabulary and language in different periods of time.”(Adachi,2022).

Adachi explains that the “Yellow Peril” which is described as western fears of Asians, especially Chinese, would invade their land and disrupt western values, started as far back as the 1870s. Although these fears already existed, there has been an uptick in racial discriminatory acts since covid due to media outlets and politicians. 

Covid took a strain particularly on college students. College is already a stressful time for young adults then covid added the pressure of social distancing, working remotely and in extreme cases leaving their dorm and finding residence elsewhere. Many may argue that stress among college students is unrelated to covid and that it’s been an ongoing issue for some time. McLafferty writes that a survey was conducted of students who attended college in Northern Ireland in the fall of 2019, then again a year later found that high levels of mental health problems were already present among students commencing college. Although college students were already struggling before the pandemic, it’s important to understand that covid exacerbated pre-existing mental health conditions.

“Students assessed post pandemic reported significantly more symptoms of anxiety and depression than students assessed pre pandemic, and these two cohorts are reporting more symptoms in many areas than a cohort of students assessed 25 years earlier.”(Nails,2023). 

In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic made the Victorian government aware of the urgent need for better mental health care for their people, brought to light the racial injustice of Asian-Americans, and showed the massive strain covid had on college students. These three situations highlight the severity in which covid affected our mental health. After the pandemic, it was realized that mental health care was at the bottom of the list of priorities. This awareness led to changes such as flexible working conditions and more need for therapy. Therapy also became more available remotely. Not only should we spread awareness on the issue of mental health but we should also take combative steps to help such as make therapy more affordable and hire more mental health providers. Unfortunately it took this catastrophic event to make us open our eyes. With this better awareness and understanding, we as a society can tackle mental health issues head on. 

Vacher, C., Ho, N., Skinner, A., Robinson, J., Freebairn, L., Lee, G. Y., Iorfino, F., Prodan, A., Song, Y. J. C., Jo-An Occhipinti, & Hickie, I. B. (2022). Optimizing Strategies for Improving Mental Health in Victoria, Australia during the COVID-19 Era: A System Dynamics Modelling Study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(11), 6470. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19116470

Westrupp, Bennett, Berkowitz, Youssef, Toumbourou, Tucker, Andrews, Evans, Teague, Karantzas, Melvin, Olsson, Macdonald, Greenwood, Mikocka-Walus, Hutchinson, Fuller-Tyszkiewicz, Stokes, Olive, Wood, Feb2023, child, parent, and family mental health and functioning in Australia during COVID-19: comparison to pre-pandemic data

Huang, C. J., & Huang, C. Y. (2023, December 21). The Moderating Role of Emotion Regulation Strategies on Asian American Parents’ Discrimination Experiences and Mental Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic. American Journal of Orthopsychiatry. Advance online publication. https://dx.doi.org/10.1037/ort0000714

Adachi, Nobuko, 2022, Yellow Peril Redux: Vitalizing Pre-Existing Racial Conditions with a New Symbol

Nails, Julianna. “A Crisis in College Student Mental Health? Self-Ratings of Psychopathology Before and After the COVID-19 Pandemic.” American Psychological Association, American Psychological Association, 11 Nov. 2023, psycnet.apa.org/record/2023-78779-001

McLafferty, Ward, Walsh, O’Neill, Bjourson, McHugh, Brown, McBride, Brady, Murray, Nov 2023, College Student Mental Health and Wellbeing Prior to and during the COVID-19 Pandemic

[rakiyaworldcinema]

The motorcycle diaries

"The Motorcycle Diaries" traces the formative experiences of a young Ernesto "Che" Guevara and his friend Alberto Granado across South America in the 50s. Directed by Walter Salles, the film is an adaptation of Guevara's own diaries, offering a glimpse into the defining moments that shaped his political awakening. Ernesto, a 23-year-old medical student, and Alberto, a biochemist, embark on a road trip across Latin America on a rickety motorcycle named La Poderosa (The Mighty One). A carefree exploration of the continent's beauty and youthful escapades transforms into a soul-stirring expose, revealing the harsh realities of the impoverished and marginalized. The journey commences in Buenos Aires meandering through various terrains, diverse cultures, and socio-economic conditions. Ernesto and Alberto bear witness to the profound disparity between the affluent and the destitute. Their encounters with the marginalized and oppressed challenge their preconceptions, igniting a social consciousness within them. This awakening acts as the catalyst for Ernesto's transformation from an idealistic youth into the revolutionary icon, Che The pivotal moment occurs when Ernesto and Alberto volunteer at a leper colony in Peru. The experience profoundly impacts Ernesto, challenging his views on healthcare, societal inequality, and the exploitation of the vulnerable. Witnessing the suffering of the patients and the lack of resources propels Ernesto's commitment to serving humanity, planting the seeds of his future revolutionary ideologies. The film beautifully captures the breathtaking landscapes of South America. The cinematography underscores the duality of beauty and hardship, emphasizing the dichotomy between the picturesque landscapes and the harsh reality faced by marginalized communities. As the duo traverses the continent, the motorcycle becomes a metaphor for their evolving perspectives and the transformative nature of their expedition. "The Motorcycle Diaries" is not merely a travelog; it's a coming-of-age tale that chronicles the awakening of social consciousness and the birth of revolutionary Ultimately, shedding light on the humanistic values that fueled Che Guevara's unwavering commitment to social justice and equality. It stands as a testament to the transformative potential of travel and the power of witnessing inequality firsthand.

[coeruniversity-uk]

Unlocking Brilliance: Unique Scholarship Schemes at COER University Roorkee

Introduction

In a world where education is both a key and a challenge, COER University Roorkee stands as a beacon of hope for thousands of students. Beyond its rigorous academics and holistic development initiatives, the university offers a wide array of unique scholarship schemes designed to promote talent, encourage innovation, and support the economically disadvantaged. These schemes are not just limited to academic performance—they go far beyond to reward creativity, community service, leadership, and resilience.

This blog explores the extraordinary and lesser-known scholarship programs offered by COER University that reflect its inclusive vision and commitment to creating a more equitable educational landscape. From scholarships for rural talent to support for entrepreneurial aspirations, COER’s scholarships redefine the concept of financial aid in higher education.

The Vision Behind Unique Scholarships

COER University believes that every student has a unique spark. However, due to socio-economic constraints, many are unable to realize their potential. The university’s unique scholarship schemes are aimed at:

- Identifying and nurturing hidden talent

- Supporting social impact-driven individuals

- Recognizing leadership and innovation potential

- Making education truly inclusive for all sections of society

Top Unique Scholarship Schemes at COER University

1. COER Udaan Scholarship (For First-Generation Learners)

This special scholarship is awarded to students who are the first in their family to pursue higher education.

Benefits:

- Up to 100% tuition waiver based on merit and interview

- Academic mentorship and peer support

Eligibility:

- First-generation college students

- Minimum 70% in qualifying exam

- Income proof below INR 2 lakh per annum

Impact:

Many recipients of the Udaan scholarship are now employed in top companies or have gone on to pursue higher studies abroad.

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2. COER Gram Pragati Scholarship (For Rural Talent)

COER recognizes the brilliance that often goes unnoticed in remote and rural areas. This scheme identifies and supports students from rural schools who demonstrate exceptional potential.

Benefits:

- Full tuition waiver

- Monthly living allowance

- Free access to books and study material

Eligibility:

- Permanent resident of a village (certified by local authorities)

- Top 10% of school board

- Letter of recommendation from school principal

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3. COER StartUp Scholar Fund (Entrepreneurship Focus)

Innovation and entrepreneurship are pillars of the COER ecosystem. The StartUp Scholar Fund supports students who have startup ideas with real-world potential.

Benefits:

- Seed funding support up to INR 2 lakh

- Incubation access and mentorship

- 50-100% tuition waiver

Eligibility:

- Business plan submission and presentation

- Proof of concept or prototype (optional)

Impact:

Several COER StartUp Scholars have launched successful ventures in edtech, agritech, and healthcare.

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4. COER Women in Tech Scholarship

To bridge the gender gap in STEM, COER offers exclusive scholarships to female students pursuing engineering, data science, and computer applications.

Benefits:

- Up to 100% tuition fee waiver

- Internship support

- Leadership training workshops

Eligibility:

- 75% or above in PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics)

- Personal interview with academic panel

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5. COER Resilience Scholarship (For Students Overcoming Adversity)

This heartfelt scholarship is aimed at students who have overcome major personal or family hardships and still managed to perform well academically.

Benefits:

- Up to 80% tuition waiver

- Access to free counseling and emotional support

- Academic flexibility and mentorship

Eligibility:

- Documentation or personal narrative of adversity (e.g., loss of parent, chronic illness, financial crisis)

- Academic record review

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6. COER Green Champions Scholarship (For Eco-Conscious Students)

As part of its sustainability goals, COER rewards students engaged in environmental conservation, sustainability projects, or climate advocacy.

Benefits:

- Partial tuition waiver

- Sponsorship for green initiatives

- Recognition at the annual Green Awards event

Eligibility:

- Active participation in green initiatives (plantation drives, clean-ups, etc.)

- Submission of project report or campaign activity

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7. COER Arts and Culture Scholarship

This scholarship supports students with exceptional talent in music, dance, painting, drama, and other art forms.

Benefits:

- Up to 70% tuition fee support

- Opportunities to represent COER at national events

- Free access to cultural clubs and studios

Eligibility:

- Proven track record in cultural events (state or national level)

- Audition or portfolio submission

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8. COER Global Talent Scholarship (For International Students)

To attract and support global talent, COER offers scholarships to international students with academic and extracurricular excellence.

Benefits:

- Up to 100% tuition fee waiver

- Visa support and accommodation

- Cross-cultural exchange and mentorship

Eligibility:

- Strong academic background (equivalent to 80%+ in Indian standards)

- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)

---

Application Process for Unique Scholarships

Step 1: Application Form

Download or fill out the scholarship form available at [www.coeruniversity.ac.in](http://www.coeruniversity.ac.in). Clearly mention the category of scholarship you are applying for.

Step 2: Supporting Documents

Attach necessary documents including:

- Academic mark sheets

- Income certificate (if applicable)

- Recommendation letters

- Project reports/portfolios

- Identity and residence proof

Step 3: Submit Online or Offline

Applications can be submitted via the university website or by visiting the admission office in Roorkee.

Step 4: Review and Interview

Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an online or in-person interview.

Step 5: Results and Enrollment

Results are declared within 15 working days. Upon confirmation, the scholarship amount is adjusted against tuition or provided through cheques for living expenses.

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Real Stories That Inspire

- Suman Rawat, a Udaan scholar, is the first woman engineer from her village. She is now working at Infosys and mentoring younger girls in STEM.

- Mohammad Ayaan, a Resilience Scholar, lost both parents in an accident. With COER’s support, he completed B.Tech and is now preparing for the Civil Services Examination.

- Neha and Priya, Green Champions, led a plantation initiative that transformed an abandoned land into a biodiversity park on campus.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I apply for both general and unique scholarships?

Yes. You can apply for multiple scholarships, but only the most beneficial one will be granted.

2. Are unique scholarships renewable every year?

Yes, based on performance and adherence to scholarship guidelines.

3. How competitive are these unique scholarships?

While they are competitive, COER ensures transparency and equal opportunity during selection.

4. Do these scholarships cover hostel and mess charges?

Some schemes, like Gram Pragati and Udaan, also cover living costs.

---

Conclusion

Scholarships at COER University are not just about financial relief—they are about unlocking potential, celebrating individuality, and building a better world. Through its unique scholarship schemes, COER is creating a new paradigm in higher education—one that values dreams, diversity, and determination.

If you are someone with talent, vision, and resilience, COER University Roorkee welcomes you to apply and be a part of a learning ecosystem where every challenge is turned into a stepping stone for success.

Apply today. Shape tomorrow.

[nursingwriter]

. Identify the mental health policy and specific population. Policy and Specific Population: Social work and the implications of a mental health policy for African Americans Mental Health Policy: African Americans require a comprehensive and holistic approach to mental health that leverages their unique cultural experience. These issues must acknowledge how to properly help African Americans better navigate many of the mental hurdles they face on day to day basis, while also being cognizant of their ability to evoke change within their respective communities. The Policy: H.R. 5469 116th Congress Pursing Equity in Mental Health Act Mental health has become a very contentious and polarizing issue within America at large. For one, it is still one of the few ailments that suffers from a social stigma attached to it through various society mechanisms. Particularly in the African American community, the admissions of mental health conditions are often perceived as being weak of inferior to others. This is particularly troublesome as mental health issues continue to rise within the African American community. Many have suffered various hardships such as low incomes, lower wealth accumulation, weaker job prospects, racial profiling, and other issues related specifically to the African American community. No single issue can solely contribute to mental health, but the combination of all these elements can surely contribute to it. Black men, in particular, often face a disproportionate burden of preventable morbidity and mortality rates compared to other groups within the United States. These issues are often stigmatized specifically within this group. Research has validated these points and has even shown that black men often have more adverse life experiences that men of other racial groups (Carlton-LaNey, 2013). Social work related to African Americans has previously been very meager. Little to no research had been conducted until the Research on Social Work Practice published a landmark issue in 2011. This issue specifically addressed the challenges that many Black men face and how these challenges compare to other racial groups. From a social work perspective these issues include black fatherhood, the lack of utilizing medical care, and adverse mental health circumstances. Here, this article, was ground breaking in the sense that it furthered the role of social workers in identifying and presenting peer-reviewed research specifically catered toward Black men. The below annotated bibliography provides an attempt to assess the current landscape related to peer-reviewed articles specifically catered towards the mental health issues that African Americans face. From the preliminary review below, the discourse is heavily dominated by racial and ethnic experiences that must be incorporated into the overall social work practices in order for the living and working conditions for African Americans to improve. Here, the research suggests that a more holistic rather than theoretical approach is requires from the social work profession to address the needs of the African American community. Traditionally, this has been done through Afrocentric paradigms in which social workers review the totality of African American worldviews and how these view impact their overall behaviors and experiences towards mental health. Here these view often incorporate the history of slavery and oppression, African American pop culture, socio-economic well-being, and many other elements that can all the utilized to form an opinion related to African Americans. Roughly 7% of social workers in the United States are African American. Black men in particular are heavily underrepresented within the profession (Allen-Meares, 2020). Unfortunately, due to the many adverse circumstances prevailing in the life of an African American, it is likely that they will interact with the social service system on a regular and consistent basis. As African Americans tend to have few monetary resources, it becomes hard for them to deal with many of the conditions associated with mental health. Here, research has shown that more consultations and social work interventions would actually be very beneficial to African Americans. Black men in particular are heavily vulnerable to mental health as they must often deal with a litany of circumstances including obtaining employment, family relationships, trauma associated violence and living in poor neighborhoods and even legislations that adversely impacts their lives. Social workers can help mitigate these influences through proper intervention and help through consultations (Penderhughes, 2019). 2. Review at least 10 articles related to the selected mental health policy and population. At least 5 of the 10 articles must be peer-reviewed journal articles. Compile annotated bibliography from at least ten articles Annotated Bibliography Aymer SR (2010).Clinical practice with African American men: What to consider and what to do.Smith College Studies in Social Work,80, 2034. https://www.paperdue.com/customer/paper/mental-health-conditions-impact-african-american-community-2180866#:~:text=Logout-,MentalHealthConditionsImpactAfricanAmericanCommunity,-Length7pages This research articles looks to address how the social work clinical practice can be catered to improve the outcomes for African American men. Here, the research details many of the hardships that are unique to the African American community. Many of these issues which include racial profiling from the police, a higher propensity to be killed while in police custody, lower socio-economic status, and many other issues impact the overall social work profession. This article looks to discuss intervention techniques specially designed to aid in the overall process in provided practical care to the black community. Here the researchers advocate for psychodynamic and Afrocentric theories to be leveraged by social workers. Finally, the article concludes by providing suggestions related to clinical work with African American men. Here the authors found that clinical work can facilitate functional coping strategies, which in turn can diminish feelings of invisibility and release their true selves. Banks KH, Kohn-Wood LP, & Spencer M (2006).An examination of the African American experience of everyday discrimination and symptoms of psychological distress.Community Mental Health Journal,42, 555570. This research article provides further validity related to the many in which discrimination and psychological distress can adversely impact African Americans communities. Here the authors provide theorical models that can be used to determine how a history of racial injustice impacts the overall mental health of African Americans. The authors specifically utilize the Jim Crow era and how unconscious forms of discrimination impacted African Americans on a daily basis. The study looks to investigate the relationship between perceived everyday discrimination and anxiety and depressive symptoms. From their research, the authors determined that perceived discrimination is directly related to both symptoms of depression and anxiety. The research also found that this depression and anxiety had different patterns in both black men and black women. Bryant-Bedell K, & Waite R (2010).Understanding major depressive disorder among middle-aged African American men.Journal of Advanced Nursing,66, 20502060. This research article looks to study how African American men recognize and express their symptoms of depression and anxiety. Here, men are very reluctant to express mental health issues due in part to the stigma attached to it. In addition, the article illustrates how socio-economic circumstances often prevent African Americans from engaging with the requisite social work professional. This combination often has adverse impacts on the community and their overall ability to cope with mental health issues such as depression. Here the authors utilized a descriptive qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with ten African American men between the ages of 40 and 59. The authors determined that social workers wuld benefit from taking into account cultural factors when reviewing mental health conditions. Calvert WJ, Isaac EP, & Johnson S (2012).Health-related quality of life and health-promoting behaviors in Black men.Health & Social Work,37, 1927. This article looked to research health promoting behaviors specifically for low-income African Americans. Here, the authors found a strong correlation between unhealthy days and various health-promoting behaviors. The authors also discuss the implications of their findings on the social work profession and how it can improve outcomes for the African American community. Namely, the authors advocate for a comprehensive approach which can lead to better health promotion for lower income African Americans. Chatters LM, Bullard KM, Taylor RJ, Woodward AT, Neighbors HW, & Jackson JS (2008).Religious participation and DSM-IV disorders among older African Americans: Findings from the National Survey of American Life (NSAL).The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry: Official Journal of the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry,16, 957965. This research article looks to establish the relationship between religion and overall mental health disorders for older African Americans. Here, the overall African American community is heavily religious. Here, the researchers found that religious service attendance was significantly and inversely associated with the odds of having a lifetime mood disorder. This research is unique in that it was the first ever conducted to find the correlation between mental health disorders and religion within the older African American community. Here, the findings suggest that higher attendance at religious meetings will ultimately result in lower mental disorders and health complications. Dupree LW, Watson MA, & Schneider MG (2005).Preferences for mental health care: A comparison of older African Americans and older Caucasians.Journal of Applied Gerontology,24, 196210. The research here is related to mental health outcomes between African Americans and Caucasians. The findings of the research suggest that African Americans tend to have a higher rate of adverse circumstances and a higher rate of mental health disorders. Per the research, the cause of these issues is varied and multi-faceted. For one, many African Americans faced adverse circumstances the ultimately undermine their overall mental health stability. This includes pervasive racism, lower employment prospects, higher crime rates within their communities, and lower socio-economic status. Overtime, these issues create adverse mental health circumstances for African Americans. Watkins DC, & Jefferson SO (2013). Recommendations for the use of online social support for African American men. Psychological Services, 10, 323332. This research provides evidence of the importance of online social support for African American men as it relates to their overall mental health. Here, the authors use meta-analysis to support the use of online mechanisms to support black men with mental health disorders. Traditionally, black men are reluctant to use treatment options related to mental health due to the stigma attached to them. Online mechanisms allow for individuals to leverage the benefits of treatment without necessarily being subject to the social stigma attached to using the services. Watkins DC, Johnson-Lawrence V, & Griffith DM (2011).Men and their father figures: Exploring racial and ethnic differences in mental health outcomes.Race and Social Problems,3, 197211. This research looks to reveal the correlation between fatherhood and mental health outcomes for African American men. Here the research found adverse circumstances related to the absence of a father figure within a childs life and their overall development of mental health. Williams DR (2003).The health of men: Structured inequalities and opportunities.American Journal of Public Health,93, 724731. This research looks to provide an evidence of the structure inequalities that impact African Americans as their ability to cope with mental health issues. The authors reveal has structural racism, laws that disproportionately impact African Americans and slavery have all created structural inequalities that are difficult to dislodge within society. Woodward AT, Taylor RJ, & Chatters LM (2011).Use of professional and informal support by Black men with mental disorders.Research on Social Work Practice,21, 328336 This research articles provides additions support for the need for mental health treatment for African Americans. Here, the articles look to establish both formal and informal mechanism that the black community can use to better cope with mental health disorders. References 1. Allen-Meares, P., & Burman, S. (2020). 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Chatters LM, Bullard KM, Taylor RJ, Woodward AT, Neighbors HW, & Jackson JS (2008).Religious participation and DSM-IV disorders among older African Americans: Findings from the National Survey of American Life (NSAL).The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry: Official Journal of the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry,16, 957965. 8. Dupree LW, Watson MA, & Schneider MG (2005).Preferences for mental health care: A comparison of older African Americans and older Caucasians.Journal of Applied Gerontology,24, 196210. 9. Penderhughes, E. (2019). Understanding race, ethnicity, and power. New York: Free Press. 10. Watkins DC, & Jefferson SO (2013). Recommendations for the use of online social support for African American men. Psychological Services, 10, 323332. 11. Watkins DC, Johnson-Lawrence V, & Griffith DM (2011).Men and their father figures: Exploring racial and ethnic differences in mental health outcomes.Race and Social Problems,3, 197211. 12. Williams DR (2003).The health of men: Structured inequalities and opportunities.American Journal of Public Health,93, 724731. 13. Woodward AT, Taylor RJ, & Chatters LM (2011).Use of professional and informal support by Black men with mental disorders.Research on Social Work Practice,21, 328336. 2 Read the full article